From the Guidelines
Hair loss patterns are primarily influenced by genetics from both parents, not just one side, with the most recent study suggesting that genetics of individuals seems to be a key contributing factor to hair loss in general and its response to various treatments 1. When assessing the risk of hair loss, it's essential to consider the genetic predisposition from both parents. The common belief that baldness is inherited solely from the mother's side is a misconception. Male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) is polygenic, meaning multiple genes from both parents contribute to the condition.
- The key gene for male pattern baldness is found on the X chromosome (which comes from the mother), but other important genes are found on non-sex chromosomes from both parents.
- For female pattern hair loss, genetics from both sides of the family are equally important.
- Environmental factors, hormones, stress, and medical conditions can also influence hair loss beyond genetic predisposition, so family history alone doesn't determine whether you'll experience significant hair loss. The most recent study 1 highlights the importance of considering the genetic factors from both parents when assessing the risk of hair loss, and also suggests that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can be an effective treatment option for androgenetic alopecia, especially when combined with topical minoxidil.
- However, the effectiveness of PRP therapy can vary depending on individual genetics and other factors, such as platelet concentration and treatment frequency.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to hair loss and to develop effective treatment options.
From the Research
Hair Loss Inheritance
- Hair loss, also known as alopecia, can be caused by several factors, including genetics 2.
- Pattern hair loss (PHL) is understood to represent a hereditary, age-dependent progressive thinning of the scalp hair, which follows distinct clinical patterns with notable differences depending on sex and age of onset 2.
- The inheritance of hair loss can come from either the mother's or father's side, as it is a genetic factor 2.
Genetic Factors
- Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of pattern hair loss (PHL) 2.
- Besides genetic factors, other pathogenic factors that are suspected to contribute to PHL include microbiomata, oxidative stress, and microinflammation 2.
- Individual diversity of causal agents, as well as the sequence of events, or combined factors, must be kept in mind when considering the genetic factors of hair loss 2.
Androgenetic Alopecia
- Androgenetic alopecia is a common form of hair loss that is typically genetic and can be treated with minoxidil or oral finasteride 3, 4, 5.
- Androgenetic alopecia is the most common form of alopecia and is typically genetic, with first-line treatment being minoxidil 3.
- Oral finasteride is another treatment available for male patients with androgenetic alopecia 3, 5.